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October 31, 2012

New series of Pioneer GM-D amplifiers pack more power and punch

Pioneer Electronics today unveiled its new line of high-efficiency “GM Digital” series Class-D automotive amplifiers, consisting of the GM-D8604 4-channel model and GM-D9601 and GM-D8601 mono models. Pioneer’s digital amplifiers can produce the same power output as conventional amplifiers more than twice their physical size through improvements in their Class-D amplifier technology and design. The new amplifiers feature an extremely compact chassis for maximum installation flexibility, a new industrial cosmetic design, balanced audio inputs for improved sound quality and higher power output compared with previous models.

“We’re continuing to improve on the technology in our Class-D amplifiers because they’re ideal for automotive applications where high space and power efficiency are essential,” said Ted Cardenas, vice president of marketing for the Car Electronics Division of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “The new GM-D amps can produce more power in the same size footprint as last year’s models while maintaining the same great sound quality.”

Power and Performance
The GM-D9601 and GM-D8601 mono amplifiers are designed specifically to power large subwoofers that can produce low bass frequencies that are often missing in most vehicles. Both models feature 1-ohm stability, allowing them to deliver extreme power and high current in a wide variety of connectivity configurations, from a single subwoofer to multiple subwoofer applications. The larger GM-D9601 can deliver up to 1200 Watts (1-ohm) of RMS power while the GM-D8601 produces up to 800 Watts (1-ohm) of RMS power. Both units feature selectable bass boost at 0dB, 6dB, or 12dB at 50Hz.

The 4-channel GM-D8604 amplifier complements the mono amp models by providing ample power for speakers that reproduce a wider frequency range. The 4-channel model can produce up to 100 Watts x 4 (4-ohm) RMS power, 150 Watts x 4 (2-ohm) of RMS power, or 300 Watts x 2 (4-ohm bridged) RMS power when configured to play in 2-channel mode. The 4-channel model features speaker level inputs and a built-in low pass or high pass crossover with a frequency slope of 40-500Hz, making it easy to add on to any system.

All three amplifiers utilize a very small, compact chassis that is ideal for applications with limited space. Each unit has been cosmetically redesigned with a new, more durable industrial design that utilizes perforated aluminum die-cast heat sinks to provide maximum heat dissipation.

The GM-D8604, GM-D9601 and GM-D8601 will be available in November with suggested retail prices of $220, $280 and $200 respectively.